Controlling Blackspot on Roses

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Gardening Which? have recommended two fungicides for controlling blackspot on roses: Multirose Ready to Use and Systhane Fungus Fighter, both are marketed by Bayer Garden. This recommendation comes after trials on roses known to have different degrees of tolerance to the disease.
Blackspot is caused by a fungus that over winters on the soil surface, among fallen leaves or in dormant infections on young stems and buds. Infected roses exhibit 'black spots' on the leaves that then turn yellow and drop off, with the plant eventually dying. The destructive infection is difficult to fight because the spores travel in the air and are often spread by water splashes.
It is worth remembering that most fungicides work best as protectants rather than eradicants, so apply these products early before any signs of infection are visible.